Victory Electric to hold annual health fair

On Saturday, Oct. 6 Victory Electric will hold their 5th annual health fair. The health fair is open to everyone in the community can get free or reduced health care services. "We started the health fair back in 2007 because we wanted to give back to the public," said Jerri Imgarten, communications specialist for Victory Electric. "Since that first year I think our participation has quadrupled, at least."Just a few of the services offered this year include; flu shots for $15, a complete blood screening for $10, whooping cough/ pertussis vaccination for $35, skin cancer screenings, pap smears, prostate exams, oral cancer screenings, vision screenings and much more all for free. No insurance is required to have these tests done. More than 60 doctors and health care professionals will be at Victory Electric to perform the tests and screenings. "Most booths will have someone who is bilingual to assist Spanish speakers," said Imgarten, "and there will also be translators walking around to assist anyone who may need help."The health fair will take place from 8 a.m. to noon at Victory Electric, 3230 N. 14th. Additional parking will be available at the Catholic and Southern Baptist churches with a shuttle service available. Admission is free, but Victory Electric does ask for a canned food donation that will be given to the local food banks."The holidays are really not that far away," said Imgarten, "and we want to make sure the food banks have enough food on hand."A new addition to the health fair this year will be a 5k fun run taking place at the high school immediately after the fair. Registration will begin at 12:15 p.m., and the run will start at 1 p.m. There will also be a one mile run/walk people may do instead. Cost is $15 for youth 12 and under and $20 for adults, which includes a t-shirt. All proceeds from the run will be donated to the local Circle of Hope Cancer Support Group. "We're just trying to continue the health and wellness theme of the day and encourage people to get some exercise," said Imgarten, "and it will be a really fun event that the whole family can enjoy together."

Reach Julia Kazar at (620) 408-9913 or e-mail her at julia.kazar@dodgeglobe.com